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Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Congressional support for increased MS research grows

At the end of June, ten MS Activists met with Congressman Derek Kilmer to ask him for increased funding for MS research. They shared their personal stories, and by doing so, recruited a new ally to the MS movement. Read on to see what Rep. Kilmer had to say about the visit in his e-newsletter to his constituents:

"This week I met with the Greater Northwest Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society on Bainbridge Island. In the meeting I heard from a group of people living with MS all of whom had unique stories ranging from a teenage girl who faces occasional paralysis to a senior citizen who faces considerable challenges on a daily basis.

I joined the Congressional Multiple Sclerosis Caucus because the federal government has an important role to play to tackle challenges related to MS. First, Congress should continue to fund MS research to prevent the occurrence, slow progression, and lessen the symptoms of the disease.

Second, Congress should continue working to ensure access to appropriate treatment, alternative therapies, and pain relief for those with MS so that they can live more comfortable and productive lives.

Additionally, Congress must support funding for the Lifespan Respite Care Program to ensure family caregivers have the support they need. And finally, Congress needs to continue to give these issues the attention they deserve. That’s why the advocacy of groups like the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is so important."

The meeting is a great example of MS Activists reaching out to a politician and asking for help to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis. Rep. Kilmer was elected to Congress this year to represent Bainbridge, NW Tacoma and the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas. It's pretty impressive that he came out so strongly in favor of our issues. Thank you to the MS Activists who made that possible!